YA in Review: A Monster Calls (Patrick Ness)

This post will essentially be Spoiler Free, however comments by other users may possibly contain information that spoils portions of the plot, so read at them your own risk. This book is the sixth one that I've completed for my 2018 TBR Challenge. I'm finally getting through them at a decent pace, which is making me feel so much better. There's a chance in heck I could actually finish now.

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What it's about:

Conor is dealing with a problem - a really big problem. His mother is very ill and has to go in for treatment once again, he's being bullied at school, and, worst of all, he is having the nightmare of all nightmares. But all of those things Conor can face - he has to. Until one day the yew tree from behind his house lifts up its roots and comes walking. As time passes and Conor's problems get worse and worse, the tree shares with him three important tales of when he has come walking before. But for this, he demands one story from Conor in return - the story of truth that he cannot face.

Why it's worth a read:

• It's a book that is raw in its truth, and full of real human emotion. If you like books that really go through the depths of human feelings, then this one is a real gem.
• Reminiscent of "The Tale of the Three Brothers" from the Harry Potter series, inside this story are three separate tales told to the main character which give the whole thing that sort of feel.
• Whether you have had someone close to you that has been sick, or not, you can relate to the feelings in this book.
• There is stunning art by Jim Kay integrated with the text, which sets the mood perfectly. 

Where it disappoints:

• If crying is not something that you enjoy or are okay with, then just don't pick this one up. Speaking as someone who often doesn't cry, especially with things that most other people find extremely sad, this one actually got to me by the end.
• If you are looking for a text-heavy read, with an elaborate plot, this just won't do it for you. It is deep  and intense, but simplistic, and the pictures will not help it feel more mature.
• It doesn't delve very deeply into the story from a mental perspective, only an emotional one. So, older readers may find it a bit juvenile in feel if they are expecting a mentally mature point of view.

Final Thoughts:

Did I think I would like this book? Yes, absolutely, but I worried it would be a bit juvenile for me. However it absolutely was not. I thought it was beautiful and perfect just the way it is. A little creepy and horrifying, it isn't the best one to read before bed, but it isn't too scary that you can't get away with doing it. It's a quick read, but it will definitely stay with you for a long time.